Exhibition of works by refugees

An exhibition of artistic work by refugees was inaugurated last Friday by the Minister for the Family and Solidarity, Dolores Cristina.

The exhibition is of weaving works made by refugees. It was organised by the Peace Lab and is being held at Palazzo Ferreria in Republic Street, Valletta.

In its work with illegal immigrants, the Peace Lab has organised a number of projects of empowerment, enabling detainees to use their time in a creative manner.

Fr Dionisius Mintoff, OFM, director of the Peace Lab, said creativity was one of the most important characterics of humankind. "It is the best means to bring out the dignity of the human being in all circumstances. Through art and creativity, the immigrants are enabled to express their emotions and thoughts," he said.

Fr Mintoff said that detainees came from all walks of life. He said some were trained in music and they managed to organise the other detainees into a choir. One detainee who was a painter set up a class and taught art to others.

Fr Mintoff said some refugees had woven some beautiful African caps, bags and blankets made of lively and colourful designs. Using a technique that did not require weaving tools or machines, one refugee taught others this weaving technique.

The material used was wool from old clothes donated to the Peace Lab.